Ginkgo May Enhance Performance, Boost Brain Health for Active Men

According to a small study extracts of Ginkgo Biloba may offer both mind and body advantages for young active men.

18 young active men participated in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a standardized extract of Ginkgo Biloba or a placebo. The study lasted six weeks. Improvements in VO2max (maximal oxygen uptake) and blood antioxidant capacity were seen in both groups, however the greatest increases were seen in the Ginkgo Biloba group. Participants in the Ginkgo Biloba supplementation group also showed increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) during exercise. BDNF acts on certain neurons of the peripheral nervous system and the central nervous system. These proteins help to support the survival of existing neurons and encourage growth of new neurons. BDNF is vital to higher thinking, learning and memory.

Although no statistical significance was noted between the groups (a marginal increase of 6% vs 1% was seen in VO2max) researchers attribute that to the dosage levels used in the study, since previous studies have shown even more benefits with higher doses. Researchers believe that the polyphenolic compounds found in Ginkgo Biloba enhance antioxidant effects by both indirectly boosting the actions of antioxidant enzymes like glutathione peroxidase, SOD, and catalase and by directly scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). A 20% increase in SOD activity was seen in the Ginkgo Biloba group compared to the placebo group.

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